Tongans head to landmark election

The people of Tonga go to the polls today in the first ever election in the Kingdom that could lead to the installation of a popularly elected government.

For the first time a majority of the Members of Parliament will be elected by the people.

Under the old system less than one third, just nine MPs were commoners - that will jump to 17 out of 26 with the Nobles still selecting the other nine.

Semisi Kailahi, one of the many independents standing, says although he has stood unsuccessfully in the past, this time with more seats on offer he is sure he will win.

"We need people with positive thinking to move this country ahead," he said.

The change has been brought about by King George Tupou V, who is surrendering considerable power.

The pro-democracy movement is confident it will win enough seats to head up that government, but an opinion poll suggests it could fall short.

Akilisi Pohiva, the long term leader of the Tongan democracy movement, says that could leave the way open for the Tongan aristocracy to dominate the new administration.

"If the nine Nobles can stick together, can stand together and be able to pull in at least five People's Candidates to their side they will probably run the government," he said.

"That is a possibility but I don't think it will happen."

Ten of the seventeen popularly elected seats are on the main island of Tongatapu - the pro-democracy movement's traditional stronghold.

But Pollster Melino Maka says recent polling indicates Mr Pohiva's party may not win the big majority it needs.

"This poll indicated that they'd be lucky to have three or four in Tongatapu," he said.

"Yeah, maybe four but no more than that."

The candidates do not include the outgoing prime minister, Fred Sevele, who is retiring.

"It is now for us to ensure we measure up to that challenge that we elect into the House people who will be able to run government fairly, with accountability and squarely and for the benefit of everybody," he said.